The National Citizen Party (NCP) has launched a new initiative called “Nari Shakti” to address various issues concerning women’s rights, dignity, security, and empowerment. The announcement was made by NCP Convener and Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam during a program at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) today.
Nahid unveiled a three-member leadership committee for the platform, which is expected to grow to 41 members. Monira Sharmin, a joint convener of the NCP central committee, was appointed as the convener of Nari Shakti. Dr. Mahmuda Alam Mitu will serve as the member secretary, and Nusrat Tabassum as the chief organizer.
According to the party, Monira previously held the position of general secretary at Dhaka University’s Kabi Sufia Kamal Hall Sangsad in 2019. Nusrat played a key role as a frontline coordinator in the anti-discrimination student movement at Dhaka University, while Dr. Mahmuda Mitu provided medical assistance to injured protesters during the July uprising.
Nahid explained that the decision to create a separate platform for women’s issues was based on a year of experience, realizing the necessity for a focused approach. The launch coincided with International Women’s Day, with hopes that Nari Shakti would expand its reach nationwide.
“Nari Shakti embodies the vision of a society free from discrimination against women, a goal we pursued during the July mass uprising,” Nahid emphasized. He highlighted the concerning trend of increased violence against women during political transitions and elections, urging the government to enforce strict measures to prevent such incidents and ensure accountability.
Nahid mentioned that women from NCP, its affiliated groups, and external individuals are welcome to join the platform. The event also featured a discussion in honor of International Women’s Day, where former interim government adviser Farida Akhtar, Sabikun Nahar Munni from Jamaat-e-Islami’s central women’s wing, Zyma Islam – a senior reporter from The Daily Star, and Fatima Tasnim Zuma from Ducsu engaged in the conversation, among others.